Simply Joy

…in a long, long time.  And it’s not because I lack material or a love for the written word.  One of the great regrets of my life is I can’t stitch and read at the same time. I do the next best thing…stitch and listen to books on CD…but it’s not the same. I love the feel of a book in my hand and the thrill when I discover one that is so compellingly written I can’t put it down. And when such a book involves needlework, well…it is worth a post to suggest it to this stitching community.

‘The Tenth Gift’ by Jane Johnson is a fabulous read, so much so in fact, I even grudged the time I spent watching football yesterday (GASP!).  As it was, I finished its 385 pages in slightly more than a day and now find myself at a loss…because there’s not a sequel or even another novel by this author on the horizon.

‘The Tenth Gift‘ follows two women who’s lives are joined across time by a small 17th century book of embroidery designs.  The commonalities between Julia and Catherine are striking and their stories  compelling. The writing is powerful and woven through the pages of ‘The Tenth Gift‘  run magnificent descriptions of life, love, tragedy, struggle and strength in two different centuries.

If I were to borrow from Heather’s Jiff Note approach I would summarize:  Romance, Pirates, a Ghost(?), Needlework! A MUST READ. (thank you, Heather!)

Enjoy.

Blessings, Julie